Embedded Files
CAEC math test
CAEC math test
CAEC mathematics is the only subject that maintains a strong connection to the GED®. The main topics are similar, as is the basic pattern of test questions, which involve identifying relevant information and sequencing multiple operations. The main difference is the absence of more abstract math, such as quadratics, lines on a Cartesian plane, inequalities, laws of exponents, scientific notation and properties of lines or angles. Differences between the CAEC and GED® are related to the test question complexity, visual information and the variety of answer formats.
GED® materials and standard math programs will provide necessary background knowledge, strategy and skill development with some minor adaptations. Additional practice using the sample tests will help candidates anticipate CAEC style questions and gain confidence with the digital features.
There are 12 questions in CAEC math part 1 (no calculator). Candidates have 30 minutes to complete the test.
There are 25 questions in CAEC math part 2 (calculator). Candidates have 90 minutes to complete the test.
Math part 1 example screenshot
Math part 1 example screenshot
Math part 2 example screenshot
Math part 2 example screenshot
What candidates need to master before attempting the CAEC math tests
What candidates need to master before attempting the CAEC math tests
Before attempting more intensive test-preparation for the CAEC, ensure candidates can confidently complete foundational math questions related to whole numbers, fractions, decimals and percentages. Refer to the table below, which also includes direct links to online reviews from the site Moving on Up developed by the Dartmouth Learning Centre.
Whole numbers and integers
Whole numbers and integers
Place value understanding (e.g., the value of digits in 3,472)
Rounding and estimation for reasonableness
Addition and subtraction (including multi-digit problems with regrouping)
Multiplication (single and multi-digit)
Division (long division and remainders)
Decimals
Decimals
Place value of decimals (tenths, hundredths, etc.)
Adding and subtracting decimals (lining up decimal points)
Multiplying and dividing decimals (understanding where the decimal goes)
Fractions
Fractions
Simplifying/reducing fractions
Finding common denominators
Adding and subtracting fractions
Multiplying and dividing fractions (including by whole numbers)
Converting between improper fractions and mixed numbers
Percentages
Percentages
Understanding percentages as parts of 100
Converting between fractions, decimals, and percentages
Finding a percent of a number (e.g., 15% of 80)
Solving percentage problems (discounts, tax, interest)
CAEC math part 1 (no calculator) test topics and learning units or modules
CAEC math part 1 (no calculator) test topics and learning units or modules
In this section, we’ve listed the CAEC math outcomes with a checklist of prerequisite skills. This can help you develop a test preparation course. We've also linked to appropriate online learning modules and units from Moving on Up.
Add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions and mixed numbers (number sense and operations)
Add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions and mixed numbers (number sense and operations)
Understand what a fraction represents (part of a whole).
Identify numerator and denominator.
Recognize equivalent fractions.
Simplify/reduce fractions.
Convert between improper fractions and mixed numbers.
Find common denominators (especially for addition/subtraction).
Understand basic multiplication and division of whole numbers.
Understand the concept of reciprocals (for dividing fractions).
Add, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals, percentages, and integers (number sense and operations)
Add, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals, percentages, and integers (number sense and operations)
Understand place value in decimals.
Convert between decimals, fractions, and percentages.
Understand negative and positive numbers (integers).
Recognize and apply rules for adding and subtracting integers.
Understand the position of decimals and integers on a number line.
Use estimation and rounding strategies.
Multiply and divide whole numbers fluently.
Interpret percent as “per hundred” and apply it to simple real-life contexts
Solve linear equations of the form x + a + b = c, where a, b, and c are decimals or integers (patterns and relations/algebra)
Solve linear equations of the form x + a + b = c, where a, b, and c are decimals or integers (patterns and relations/algebra)
Understand the meaning of a variable (e.g., x represents an unknown)
Use inverse operations (addition/subtraction) to isolate variables
Perform addition and subtraction with integers and decimals
Apply the concept of balance/equality in equations (what you do to one side, do to the other)
Substitute numbers into expressions to check solutions
Understand basic properties of operations (associative, commutative, identity)
Evaluate expressions using order of operations including whole numbers, integers, decimals, fractions, and powers (patterns and relations/algebra)
Evaluate expressions using order of operations including whole numbers, integers, decimals, fractions, and powers (patterns and relations/algebra)
Understand the concept of expressions (vs. equations)
Know the order of operations (BEDMAS/BODMAS: Brackets, Exponents, Division/Multiplication, Addition/Subtraction)
Perform operations with whole numbers, integers, decimals, and fractions
Evaluate powers (e.g., 2² = 4)
Work with negative numbers in operations
Identify and correctly apply grouping symbols (e.g., parentheses, brackets)
CAEC math part 2 (calculator) test topics and learning units
CAEC math part 2 (calculator) test topics and learning units
In this section, we’ve listed the CAEC math part 2 outcomes and some additional skill-building topics. We've also linked to appropriate online learning modules and units from Moving on Up.
Number sense outcomes (25 to 30 percent)
Number sense outcomes (25 to 30 percent)
Solve problems in financial or other contexts that involve fractions, decimals, and percentages, such as gratuity, discounts, commission, taxes, interest, and salary.
Understand and convert between fractions, decimals, and percentages.
Calculate percent increase/decrease, percentages of amounts (e.g., 15% of $80).
Perform basic operations (add, subtract, multiply, divide) with decimals and percentages.
Apply real-life vocabulary: discount, tax, tip, salary, interest, commission.
Work with multi-step problems involving financial scenarios.
Understand and convert between units of currency and measurement (where needed).
Use mental math and estimation to assess reasonableness of results,
Solve problems in financial and real-world contexts that involve rates, ratios, and proportions, such as speed or scale.
Understand and solve proportion problems (e.g., a/b = c/d).
Interpret unit rates (e.g., km/hr, $/hour, cost per item).
Set up and solve ratios and proportions.
Use mental math and estimation to assess reasonableness of results.
Patterns and relations (10 to 20 percent)
Patterns and relations (10 to 20 percent)
Interpret and extend patterns and relationships.
Understand variables and how they are used to represent unknown values.
Use inverse operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) to solve for variables.
Write and solve linear equations that model real-world contexts.
Solve linear equations (e.g., ax + b = c).
Apply and manipulate a given equation or formula.
Evaluate and substitute into expressions and formulas.
Understand order of operations (BEDMAS/BODMAS).
Understand basic formula manipulation (e.g., solving for a different variable).
Apply formulas in real-life contexts (e.g., perimeter, area, interest).
Analyze and solve problems using numerical and logical reasoning.
Read and interpret word problems to set up equations.
Geometry and measurement (25 to 35 percent)
Geometry and measurement (25 to 35 percent)
Convert between various units of measure, including Système International d'unites (SI) (without a conversion rate provided in the question), Imperial (with conversion rate provided), and U.S. Customary units of measure (with conversion rate provided).
Convert between units using provided or known conversion rates.
Apply scale factor and properties of similar shapes to solve problems.
Identify and classify 2D and 3D shapes and their properties.
Calculate perimeter, area, and volume of regular and composite shapes.
Understand and use formulas for surface area and volume of prisms, cylinders, pyramids, etc.
Apply the Pythagorean Theorem to solve problems that involve right triangles.
Apply formulas to determine the perimeter and area of two-dimensional shapes, including composite two-dimensional shapes.
Apply formulas to determine the surface area and volume of three-dimensional shapes, including composite three-dimensional shapes.
Data management and probability (20 to 30 percent)
Data management and probability (20 to 30 percent)
Interpret data represented in tables, spreadsheets, and graphs, such as line graphs, bar graphs, histograms, circle graphs, and scatterplots.
Identify and describe trends and patterns in data.
Use basic spreadsheet skills (e.g., entering data, interpreting cells) if technology is used.
Calculate and analyze mean, median, mode, and range with consideration of any outliers.
Understand the effect of outliers on statistical measures.
Solve problems that involve the probability of independent events and mutually exclusive events.
Calculate probability of a single event using fractions or percentages.
Understand and calculate the probability of independent events (e.g., flipping a coin twice).
Distinguish between mutually exclusive and dependent events.
Use logical reasoning to solve numerical puzzles or word problems.
How candidates will show their answers
Candidates will see several different answer formats requiring them to do the following:
Direct entry
Click on the button
Choose from a dropdown list
Click, drag and drop
Click, drag and drop to complete a pattern.
Direct entry (used for all questions in part 1 and some questions in part 2 )
Click on the button
Click on a graphic
Choose answer in a dropdown list
Click, drag and drop
Click, drag and drop to complete a pattern
Complete listing of math topics, prerequisite skills and online learning units
Complete listing of math topics, prerequisite skills and online learning units
CAEC math test preparation.pdfThis listing will help you plan instruction and evaluate candidates' background knowledge. Before attempting the CAEC math tests, candidates need to have confident abilities with whole numbers, fractions, decimals and percentages.
Review your math and gain confidence!
Review your math and gain confidence!
Are you helping learners with math for the first time? Do you need to refresh your memory? Two Ontario teachers have created an excellent open educational guide to help teacher candidates prepare for the mandatory math proficiency test (MPT). Many topics on the MPT are similar to CAEC. Take a look and reclaim your math confidence!
Page updated
Report abuse